Error Code: E 74

Allright, so it can happen to me...

Twice. I had a first generation 360, and was so proud that it lasted two years without red lights. Then, one night it was over. I called Microsoft and they were very responsive; a coffin on the way along with a shipping label. The refurbrished system was back home and running within two weeks! I immediately took it to the game store and traded it in for an "upgrade."

This was the redesigned 65nm CPU, and 90nm GPU with a modified heat sinc, to compensate for the small heat sinc that accomodates the DVD drive. Team FDOU, the right manufacturing date, HDMI Pro system - I had it all lined up..

Well, about 20 days after the warranty expires, it stops working. Microsoft is no so helpful this time around. Three red lights = three year warranty. My new Xbox 360 only gave me a one light error, with an E 74 error code. So, the MS rep wanted $100 for the repair, and also for me to pay shipping.

I did what anybody else would do in this situation.. I opened up the 360 and fixed it myself. There is a wealth of good information on the Internet regarding Xbox 360 repairs, but you really have to be carefull. I was curious about the popular "towel trick" but I knew at best it would provide only a temporary fix.

As a qualified electronics technician, I tried a more logical approach - and researched multiple solutions and troubleshooting methods. I wanted a better fix. There is some great information on the Llamma site under the Xbox 360 section.

I'm still evaluating the repair to see how long it will last. Taking it apart and re-adjusting the heat sinc, adding thermal paste, and cleaning the contacts is the best approach, but be prepared to do a lot of careful work.